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7 Foods You Should Avoid Eating if You Have Acne-Prone Skin

Acne didn't go away once you hit 20? Are you actually making it worse?

Bethany Kochan

Most believe that acne is only a problem for teenagers. Hormones are going crazy, girls start wearing make-up, boys are sweating more, and skin care may not be a top priority. But acne is not just a problem for adolescents — people of all ages can suffer from it. Hair follicles can clog with oil and dead skin cells to cause whiteheads, blackheads or inflamed red bumps. It's frustrating and can cause severe discomfort. However, you may be able to reduce your acne but avoiding certain foods.

Does Your Diet Cause Acne?

There is a lot of inconclusive research on this topic. For most foods, there doesn't seem to be a clear indication whether or not the food is causing acne, or if it is even part of the picture. However, there does seem to be a correlation between a diet that is high in fat, refined sugar and high glycemic foods and acne breakouts. These foods may contribute:

  • Chocolate
  • Dairy
  • Pasta
  • White Bread
  • White Rice
  • Food high in saturated and trans fats
  • Spicy Foods
These foods may cause inflammation in your body and lead to a breakout.
What Should You Eat
A healthier diet may help your skin, as well as the rest of your body. Eating a balance of healthy, whole foods rather than processed foods keep inflammation in your body down, and keep hormone levels steady. If you are prone to acne, or just want to eat a more healthy diet, consume more of these foods:
  • Yellow and orange fruits and vegetables
  • Leafy, green vegetables
  • Tomatoes
  • Blueberries
  • Whole-wheat bread
  • Brown rice
  • Quinoa
  • Turkey
  • Pumpkin seeds
  • Beans, peas, and lentils
  • Salmon, or other fatty fish
  • nuts
Will cleaning up your diet clean up your skin? It just might. It certainly won't hurt you at all. But if you are still having skin issues, a dermatologist can diagnose your issues and help you resolve them.
[Image via Shutterstock]

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